STUDY OF RISK FACTORS OF STROKE - AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY IN THE RURAL MEDICAL COLLEGE IN NORTH WEST OF INDIA

Abstract

Introduction: -Stroke is the leading cause of mortality and physical disability among the all neurological diseases. Risk factors, type, and incidence varies in different population. With this study we intend to evaluate the prole of patient, and prevailing management of stroke patients in rural Medical College in North West India. Material methods: -All the stroke patients presenting to emergency department were included in the study. Demographic prole, stroke types, risk factors were recorded for each stroke patient. Results: -Among a total of 124 patients 78 were male and 46 female. Mean systolic blood pressure was 155 and mean diastolic blood pressure of 91 mm of Hg. Ischemic stroke accounted for 73.4% and haemorrhagic stroke for 26.6 %. Hypertension was found in 47 % of ischemic patients and 51 % haemorrhagic strokes patients. Diabetes was found in 28.6 % of ischemic stroke patients and 24.4% of haemorrhagic stroke patients. Dyslipidaemia in 3.3% of ischemic and 9 % of haemorrhagic stroke patients. 34% of ischemic and 33% of haemorrhagic stroke patients were smoker. 8.8% of ischemic stroke patients had past history of stroke and CAD while only 6% haemorrhagic stroke patients had past history of stroke and none of haemorrhagic strike patient had history of CAD. Conclusion: - Undiagnosed and untreated hypertension and lack of awareness of the risks factors are some of the areas of concern.